
Bank of Israel Cuts Key Interest Rate to 3.50% to Counter Strong Shekel
The central bank lowered its benchmark rate for the second consecutive time, citing pressure from a strong currency on exporters and moderate inflation expectations.

The central bank lowered its benchmark rate for the second consecutive time, citing pressure from a strong currency on exporters and moderate inflation expectations.

Bitcoin maintained its position above $63,000 over the weekend, showing resilience to escalating U.S.-Iran tensions as investors also monitored a key developer proposal and U.S. regulatory discussions.

Fitch Ratings has affirmed BlackRock TCP Capital's 'BB' rating but revised its outlook to Negative, citing elevated leverage, above-average non-accrual loans, and a weaker asset coverage cushion compared to peers.

Ford Motor Co. and Canadian auto union Unifor have secured a tentative three-year labor contract, covering over 5,000 workers and potentially setting a precedent for talks with General Motors and Stellantis.

The U.S. Treasury has sanctioned a major financial network linked to Iran's supreme leader and the IRGC, following renewed attacks on oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The move heightens geopolitical tensions and signals a tougher U.S. stance.

Energy services firm Baker Hughes has delayed its weekly North American rig count report, a key indicator for future oil and gas production, which was scheduled for release on Friday.

A significant military escalation between the U.S. and Iran has erupted, with Tehran targeting U.S. facilities across the Gulf and declaring the vital Strait of Hormuz closed, threatening a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards navy has reportedly closed the critical Strait of Hormuz shipping lane until further notice, a move that threatens to disrupt global oil supplies and inject significant volatility into energy markets.

The Canadian dollar, or loonie, strengthened to its highest level in three weeks against the U.S. dollar after Canada's June employment report showed the economy added 18,200 jobs, far exceeding analysts' expectations.